US Prog Metal legends Transcendence are excited to announce the release of their long awaited new studio album “Nothing Etched in Stone – Pt. I”, out now via Cosmic Fire Records.

In addition, Transcendence has also released the focus track, “Voices in the Dark”, alongside a stunning lyric video that you can watch below.

The band comments on the new single:

“‘Voices’ is actually the oldest track on the album. Jeff brought in the main guitar parts right after we had done the ‘3 Stones’ EP. For the chorus, John brought in a string section that he had written back when he was a teenager but had never used. It seemed a natural fit over Jeff’s guitar parts, so we ran with it. We actually played it live when we opened for Dream Theater on the Metropolis tour. Later, we revisited it, and it worked with the theme of ‘Nothing Etched in Stone’, with some obvious tune ups, of course”!

Tracklist:

1. Discovery
2. Take Control
3. One Fear
4. Shades of Winter
5. Last Solstice
6. Infect the Nations
7. The Edge Awaits
8. Voices in the Dark
9. Lost… Dream
10. In… Time
11. Ruins… Before the Dawn
12. Open the Sky (CD bonus track)

Says the band about the album:

“We’re all excited here with the impending release! We’ve got our friends and family on watch for the moment ‘Nothing Etched in Stone’ becomes a reality! We’re very blessed to have all the support from them and special shout out to Thanos and everyone at Cosmic Fire Records for helping us bring our message to the world”.

The new album weaves a poignant narrative of an artist’s journey through passion, loss, and redemption. The story follows an artist who discovers his creative “stone” and pursues it relentlessly, drawing inspiration from “the edge” near his home. A devastating loss, linked to a global crisis orchestrated by rogue agencies, shatters his world, dimming his creativity and peace. Grappling with grief, he escapes to a foreign land, briefly reigniting his art but spiraling into addiction and obsession. Upon reflecting on his work, he foresees loneliness and returns home, questioning whether his dreams held him back while glimpsing a transcendent future.

Recorded, produced, and mixed by Bart Rose at Fort Worth Sound, with mastering by Derek Taylor (Eniac Requiem), “Nothing Etched in Stone” captures Transcendence’s evolution while staying true to their progressive metal roots. The album features a new vocal powerhouse, Brian Dixon (Resonance Theory, X Opus), who stepped in after the departure of original vocalist Greg Drew. Dixon was recommended by Travis Wills (Crimson Glory), who was unable to join due to prior commitments but recognized Dixon’s ability to carry the band’s vision forward.

FFO: Dream Theater, Crimson Glory, Fates Warning, Queensrÿche, Kamelot, Stratovarius

Buy and stream “Nothing Etched in Stone Pt. I” here.

“Nothing Etched in Stone – Pt. I” is poised to reaffirm Transcendence’s place among prog metal’s elite, delivering a sonic journey that is as thought-provoking as it is musically intricate.

About TRANSCENDENCE:

TRANSCENDENCE was formed in the late ‘90s in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area by Kirk Wood (Bass), Jeff Ford (Guitar), Greg Drew (Vocals), John Von Rosenberg (Drums), and John Howser (Keyboards). 

“The Meridian Project” was released in 2001 and quickly sprang to #1 on MP3.com for both the album and the song “Alpha Omega”. John Von Roseneberg left the group immediately after “The Meridian Project” release and was very capably replaced by Derrek Edwards.

During that time they also released a three track EP titled “3 Stones” (2003). 

TRANSCENDENCE spent the next 14 years opening for the likes of Dream Theater, Geoff Tate, and countless other national acts in their home town.

TRANSCENDENCE has been a cornerstone of the US progressive metal scene since their formation. Known for their intricate compositions and emotionally charged performances, the band has garnered a dedicated following over the decades. With “Nothing Etched in Stone”, Transcendence continues to push boundaries, blending technical prowess with profound storytelling.

TRANSCENDENCE are:
Brian Dixon – Vocals, vocal harmonies
Jeff Ford – Guitars
Kirk Wood – Bass, vocal harmonies
John Howser – Keys, piano
Derrek Edwards – Drums

For more info visit:
https://linktr.ee/TranscendenceUS
http://www.facebook.com/transcendenceusband
https://www.facebook.com/cosmicfirerecords

US progressive metal pioneers TRANSCENDENCE are set to make a triumphant return with their first album in 22 years, “Nothing Etched in Stone – Pt. I”, scheduled for release on June 27th, 2025, via Cosmic Fire Records. Alongside the album announcement, the band has unveiled an official video for their powerful new single, “The Edge Awaits”, which is available to watch now.

The official video for “The Edge Awaits” offers a haunting visual complement to the single’s introspective lyrics and soaring melodies, inviting listeners into the emotional core of the album’s concept. 

Vocalist Brian says about the new single:
“‘The Edge Awaits’ might just be my favorite track on the new album. I was going through a personal tragedy of my own at the time this was recorded and you can hear the emotional sense of loss in my vocal performance“.

John Howser (keys, piano) comments:
“‘The Edge Awaits’ origins come from exploring what hides in the dark corners of the mind.  While there are certainly nods to Nietzsche and Lovecraft for their views on The Abyss, for me it is about embracing the primal dark we all have inside and how we channel our emotions and actions from it“.

Tracklist:

1. Discovery
2. Take Control
3. One Fear
4. Shades of Winter
5. Last Solstice
6. Infect the Nations
7. The Edge Awaits
8. Voices in the Dark
9. Lost… Dream
10. In… Time
11. Ruins… Before the Dawn
12. Open the Sky (CD bonus track)

“Nothing Etched in Stone” is an ambitious 19-song concept album, split into two parts, with Pt. I arriving on June 27th, 2025, and Pt. II slated for 2026. The album weaves a poignant narrative of an artist’s journey through passion, loss, and redemption. The story follows an artist who discovers his creative “stone” and pursues it relentlessly, drawing inspiration from “the edge” near his home. A devastating loss, linked to a global crisis orchestrated by rogue agencies, shatters his world, dimming his creativity and peace. Grappling with grief, he escapes to a foreign land, briefly reigniting his art but spiraling into addiction and obsession. Upon reflecting on his work, he foresees loneliness and returns home, questioning whether his dreams held him back while glimpsing a transcendent future.

The album marks a significant chapter for TRANSCENDENCE, following their recent signing to Cosmic Fire Records, as announced earlier this year. The band’s latest single, “The Edge Awaits”, showcased their signature blend of intricate instrumentation and emotive storytelling, setting the stage for “Nothing Etched in Stone”.

Recorded, produced, and mixed by Bart Rose at Fort Worth Sound, with mastering by Derek Taylor (Eniac Requiem), “Nothing Etched in Stone” captures TRANSCENDENCE’s evolution while staying true to their progressive metal roots. The album features a new vocal powerhouse, Brian Dixon (Resonance Theory, X Opus), who stepped in after the departure of original vocalist Greg Drew. Dixon was recommended by Travis Wills (Crimson Glory), who was unable to join due to prior commitments but recognized Dixon’s ability to carry the band’s vision forward.

Vocalist Brian states:
“As a huge fan of the prior Transcendence releases, it really has been a fully rewarding experience to not only get to know and love the guys, but also immerse myself into the new material. Make no mistake, recording two albums worth of material was not a small or easy task, but it has been very fulfilling in so many ways. I couldn’t be more proud of the the final product and prog fans worldwide should rejoice in the fact that a capable band is still releasing the classic sounds of our favorite influences”.

Guitarist Jeff comments:
“Excited to be teamed up with Cosmic Fire Records, a company that truly seems to understand the nuances of the ever changing music industry. From a guitar standpoint, there were a ton of tracks that went into the making of this album, so I’m really happy that the material will see the light of day and have the opportunity to be shared with the world”.

Bass player Kirk explains: “Recording ‘NEIS’ was a slow and methodical process. We learned a lot from Bart (producer & engineer) about how to make this album sonically the best that we could”. Kirk added: “Our past recordings had more of a raw and live feel to them. A good time capsule to represent our beginnings”.

John Howser (keys, piano) shares: “This record represents everything I’ve wanted to say as a musician. I’ve always gravitated to the album format of one cohesive story, and each song is a piece of the puzzle. Funny, but some of them really take on different”.

Derrek (drums) claims:
“‘Nothing Etched in Stone’ has been a journey forged in creativity, vision and pure sonic exploration. Writing, creating the instrumental sections, recording and mixing  pushed us into uncharted territory. This is the result of real collaboration, intent and raw ability. I hope our creation takes our listeners on an incredible journey of their own”. Continues Derrek: “I came in after the debut album was released. I had just 3 weeks to master the full set as we were set to open for the legendary Geoff Tate. I stayed true to the original tracks and it was a trial by fire, but it solidified my place in Transcendence”.

You can pre-order & pre-save “Nothing Etched in Stone Pt. I” at THIS LOCATION

“Nothing Etched in Stone – Pt. I” is poised to reaffirm TRANSCENDENCE’s place among prog metal’s elite, delivering a sonic journey that is as thought-provoking as it is musically intricate. Stay tuned for more updates, including tracklists, pre-order details, and news on Pt. II in 2026.

About TRANSCENDENCE:

TRANSCENDENCE was formed in the late ‘90s in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area by Kirk Wood (Bass), Jeff Ford (Guitar), Greg Drew (Vocals), John Von Rosenberg (Drums), and John Howser (Keyboards). 

“The Meridian Project” was released in 2001 and quickly sprang to #1 on MP3.com for both the album and the song “Alpha Omega”. John Von Roseneberg left the group immediately after “The Meridian Project” release and was very capably replaced by Derrek Edwards.

During that time they also released a three track EP titled “3 Stones” (2003). 

TRANSCENDENCE spent the next 14 years opening for the likes of Dream Theater, Geoff Tate, and countless other national acts in their home town.

TRANSCENDENCE has been a cornerstone of the US progressive metal scene since their formation. Known for their intricate compositions and emotionally charged performances, the band has garnered a dedicated following over the decades. With “Nothing Etched in Stone”, Transcendence continues to push boundaries, blending technical prowess with profound storytelling.

TRANSCENDENCE are:
Brian Dixon – Vocals, vocal harmonies
Jeff Ford – Guitars
Kirk Wood – Bass, vocal harmonies
John Howser – Keys, piano
Derrek Edwards – Drums

For more info visit:
https://linktr.ee/TranscendenceUS
http://www.facebook.com/transcendenceusband
https://www.facebook.com/cosmicfirerecords

US progressive metal legends TRANSCENDENCE are thrilled to unveil their brand-new single, “Shades of Winter”, available today via Cosmic Fire Records. Accompanying the single is a stunning official video, now streaming for fans worldwide.

“Shades of Winter” showcases TRANSCENDENCE’s signature blend of intricate instrumentation, emotive melodies, and thought-provoking lyricism. The track serves as a powerful glimpse into the band’s forthcoming album, their first in over two decades, set to arrive later this year. With its haunting atmosphere and dynamic energy, the single reaffirms TRANSCENDENCE’s place at the forefront of the progressive metal scene.

The official video for “Shades of Winter” complements the song’s introspective tone, offering a visually captivating experience that draws listeners deeper into its emotional narrative. Fans can watch the video here:

Vocalist Brian says about the new single:

“‘Shades of Winter’ was the second song we recorded for the album. It’s got a little bit of everything in it, you can hear our influences shine through. One of my absolute favorites”.

John Howser (keys, piano) comments:

“‘Shades of Winter’ represents what happens when all five of us collaborate evenly. Soaring guitar work, keyboards creating an emotive atmosphere, dramatic vocals, and lyrics that tell a story. In my opinion, this track in particular really hits the right balance of our shared vision”.

The release follows TRANSCENDENCE’s recent signing to Cosmic Fire Records, marking a new chapter for the band as they prepare to share more music in 2025. “Shades of Winter” was recorded and produced with the same meticulous care as their earlier work, featuring new vocalist Brian Dixon (Resonance Theory), whose commanding performance elevates the track to new heights.

Fans of TRANSCENDENCE and progressive metal alike are invited to stream “Shades of Winter” and watch the official video today. Stay tuned for more updates on the band’s highly anticipated upcoming album.

About TRANSCENDENCE:

TRANSCENDENCE was formed in the late ‘90s in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area by Kirk Wood (Bass), Jeff Ford (Guitar), Greg Drew (Vocals), John Von Rosenberg (Drums), and John Howser (Keyboards). 

“The Meridian Project” was released in 2001 and quickly sprang to #1 on MP3.com for both the album and the song “Alpha Omega”. John Von Roseneberg left the group immediately after “The Meridian Project” release and was very capably replaced by Derrek Edwards.

During that time they also released a three track EP titled “3 Stones” (2003). 

TRANSCENDENCE spent the next 14 years opening for the likes of Dream Theater, Geoff Tate, and countless other national acts in their home town.

TRANSCENDENCE has been a cornerstone of the US progressive metal scene since their formation. Known for their intricate compositions and emotionally charged performances, the band has garnered a dedicated following over the decades. With “Nothing Etched in Stone”, Transcendence continues to push boundaries, blending technical prowess with profound storytelling.

TRANSCENDENCE are:
Brian Dixon – Vocals, vocal harmonies
Jeff Ford – Guitars
Kirk Wood – Bass, vocal harmonies
John Howser – Keys, piano
Derrek Edwards – Drums

For more info visit:
https://linktr.ee/TranscendenceUS
http://www.facebook.com/transcendenceusband
https://www.facebook.com/cosmicfirerecords

Cosmic Fire Records is proud to announce the signing of legendary US prog metal band TRANSCENDENCE, who are back after 22 years with their brand new single, entitled “Take Control”. Watch the official video for “Take Control” below.

Vocalist Brian comments on the new single:

“‘Take Control’ was the first song we recorded after joining Transcendence. Already being a big fan of their previously released materials, I had a really good idea of what they wanted vocally, even though Greg (original vocalist) and I sound nothing alike. Kirk and I spent about 3 hours with Bart at Fort Worth Sound hammering out the details“.

Brian adds about the collaboration with Cosmic Fire Records:

“Transcendence is thrilled to partner with Cosmic Fire Records! Finally, a label that understands the needs of a band while also working together towards a common goal. Their approach is very different and refreshing. Not only are they musicians, web designers, and artists themselves, but they also have a fine-tuned understanding of the markets they serve“.

Cosmic Fire Records A&R manager says:

“We are honored to have Transcendence on our roster! We have been fans of the band since their debut was released back in the day! This great prog metal band has been inactive for many years, but now they are back with some amazing new material. Prepare to be mesmerized by their incredible new songs“!

TRANSCENDENCE was formed in the late ‘90s in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area by Kirk Wood (Bass), Jeff Ford (Guitar), Greg Drew (Vocals), John Von Rosenberg (Drums), and John Howser (Keyboards). 

“The Meridian Project” was released in 2001 and quickly sprang to #1 on MP3.com for both the album and the song “Alpha Omega”. John Von Roseneberg left the group immediately after “The Meridian Project” release and was very capably replaced by Derrek Edwards.

During that time they also released a three track EP titled “3 Stones” (2003). 

TRANSCENDENCE spent the next 14 years opening for the likes of Dream Theater, Geoff Tate, and countless other national acts in their home town.

After the band started working on their new studio work, vocalist Greg Drew left the band. The remaining members looked for a replacement for Greg until they asked Travis Wills (Crimson Glory), but due to his other commitments they could not work together. After that they asked singer Brian Dixon (Resonance Theory, X Opus) to take over the vocal duties. Ironically, Brian was already big fan of the band and knew their prior material. It was a perfect fit!

More details about the upcoming new studio album, track listing, cover artwork and pre-orders will be revealed in the coming weeks.

TRANSCENDENCE are:
Brian Dixon – Vocals, vocal harmonies
Jeff Ford – Guitars
Kirk Wood – Bass, vocal harmonies
John Howser – Keys, piano
Derrek Edwards – Drums

For more info visit:
https://linktr.ee/TranscendenceUS
http://www.facebook.com/transcendenceusband
https://www.facebook.com/cosmicfirerecords